What Is Car Key Cutting?
Modern car keys are not ones you can take to a self-service kiosk in the mall to be cut. They require special sidewinder equipment and are specifically designed to match the specific locks cylinders that you have in your car.
Understanding the distinction between car key duplication and cutting your car keys can save you time, money and stress in the near future.
Keys
The process of cutting a car key is to create a new vehicle key. This is typically done by a professional, as it requires specialized equipment to trace the unique profile of the key and ensure that it fits into all of the locks correctly. A professional will usually offer a guarantee on the work they perform.
In the past, car keys were simple. Modern technology has made them more complex. Many vehicles now use smart keys that come with encryption and other security features to prevent theft. These features are designed to make it harder for thieves to duplicate or tamper with the key and can help the owner keep track of who has used their vehicle.
Traditional car keys have a rectangular and flat form. They are thinner than sidewinder keys and feature the same cut on both sides. These keys are able to fit in any lock because they share the same cut on both sides. These keys can be duplicated using standard key machines that are available in hardware stores.
Laser cut keys were first introduced in the early 1990s, mostly by luxury car manufacturers. The aim was to stop theft of cars and the technology has been successfully used in various models. Laser cut keys are more durable than conventional keys, and have more carved out grooves in their shanks. They are more expensive to produce, but are also more secure.
To cut a key with a laser the locksmith first decode a key that is already in the store. He or she then sets the double sided key cutting near me cutting machine to match the cuts in the key decoded and then cuts the blade. This kind of key is much more difficult to duplicate and it takes a longer time than a regular key. It is imperative that the locksmith uses a manual machine that is of high quality like the Silca Futura Auto or Futura Pro or the Framon 2 machine. These machines also can create keys, which means that they can make a new key from a key that has been cut.
Tools
Car key cutting is more than just creating a metal piece; it's an art that guarantees security, efficiency and durability. When keys are cut correctly, they ensure that they will fit into the lock and won't damage it or the ignition. Whether you need a standard mechanical key or a smart or transponder key, a professional will make sure that the key is cut correctly.
To make a brand new key, an original key is placed on the duplicator's side and lined up with an instrument designed for cutting to be used as a template for the new key. Then a blank key is placed on the opposite side of the machine where it is aligned using an instrument guide to keep both keys in alignment during the duplicate process. The two keys are cut at the same time to create duplicates that are identical to the original key.
When selecting a key cutter, look for one that has several jaws that have different ways to hold the key. A two-way jaw is ideal to duplicate standard keys while four-way jaws are better for duplicates of laser cut key blades. Additionally, if you're using the machine to make keys for cars, such as a transponder or remote head keys ensure that there's enough space between the jaws to accommodate these types of key.
The right tool can assist you in establishing the business. A Defu 2A key duplicator, for instance, is affordable and has the capability to cut nearly every type of key, excluding high-security blanks. The model is portable and ideal for those who wish to start their own car key cutting business.
The investment in a top-quality key cutting machine can be expensive, but it's worth the cost since it will allow you to create and cut keys using code including transponder and smart keys. It's also great for cloning and programming RW4, MBOX, ZBULL and other chip keys. If you're planning to program and clone high-security chips however you'll require a second device that is able to communicate with the onboard system of your vehicle and identify the unique identification number (VIN). Choosing the best equipment for your key cutting business will save time and money in the long term.
Cutting
The key duplicator is a tool that duplicates keys with the same shape as existing keys. The original key is placed on one side of the machine and aligned with the cutting tool. This is used as a template to create the new key. The blank key will be placed on the opposite side of the machine. Key guides are used to keep the two keys aligned during the cutting process to create a perfect duplicated key.
Different types of keys require special equipment. Keys for cars that are standard can be made with the use of a key cutter. The majority of newer vehicles are equipped with smart 24 hour key cutting systems or proximity key fobs which need to be programmed in order to start the engine. To cut these kinds of keys, you require transponder key cutters capable of tracing the contours of the key and programming it to the vehicle.
In addition being able cut various types of keys, car key cutters also must be able program the key to make it function properly with the ignition system. There are many models of car key-cutters available on the market. Each one has distinct features. The model you choose depends on the kind of key you're cutting and the number of keys you will need to copy at once.
If you're interested in learning how to make your own keys, a car key maker could be a great tool in your workshop. You should be aware that key cutting machines are available in a wide range of high-quality. It is important to buy an item that is manufactured by a reputable industrial manufacturer and comes with a solid warranty. You should also make sure that the machine can be easily repaired or replaced in the event of need.
There are three kinds of key cutting machines that are available: Manual Semi-Automatic, and Automatic. Manual Machines require you to manually move keys along the key tracer and cutter wheel, they are easy to use but do require your complete concentration. The JMA Nomad or Silca Flash are both good options. Automatic Machines are computer-driven and will complete all the work for you. All you need to do is tell them what you want to accomplish using the software included with the machine.
Programming
If a key is equipped with transponder, it has to be programmed to the specific vehicle. The process varies between brands and models, but usually involves inserting the key that is currently in use into the ignition and then leaving it for a couple of minutes. Then insert the new key and leave it there for a few minutes. This allows the car to recognize the new mobile key cutting near me and allows it to start the car. You may also need to program your keyless entry remote if you have a newer model of vehicle. This requires a complicated and expensive device.
Customers are demanding more car key duplication machines in retail stores. These machines are simpler to use and more accurate than manual machines for cutting keys. They eliminate human error and provide accurate and quick key cutting. They are great for people who have lost their keys or damaged them.
You can also locate a car key cutter that specializes in the creation of replacement key fobs for the most recent models of cars. These devices use the exact same technology that duplication machines use for car keys, but can create up to 50 copies at once. Some models feature touchscreens to make it easier to operate. They can also create smart keys that have an electronic transponder that opens doors automatically.
A car key cutter can be used to duplicate both metal keys and transponder cards. Some have a remote. A normal key has exactly the same cuts on both sides. A remote head is a combination of a normal key and a fob, that includes buttons to lock and unlock the car.
The majority of modern vehicles are equipped with a type of anti-theft system that prevents keys other than those supplied by the manufacturer to be used in the ignition. This system is based on an electronic chip that communicates with the car's computers. The car will not start if the chip is not programmed properly. A certified auto locksmith can program a new car key for you in a few minutes.